AEG air fryer overheats; food burns quickly and there is a strong smell of scorching even at normal temperature settings.

Safety first: Unplug immediately if you notice smoke or burning smell. Allow the unit to cool completely before inspection.

Steps to address overheating:

• Clean interior: Remove basket and clean the cavity, heater guard, and sensor area with a non-abrasive cleaner. Built-up grease can cause hot spots and misreadings.
• Inspect sensor placement: Access the heater area and ensure the NTC sensor is correctly clipped in its holder and not touching the heating element directly.
• Test heater relay: With the unit unplugged, inspect the heater relay on the main PCB. If contacts are welded closed, the heater may stay on continuously. Replace the main control board or relay.
• Check thermal cut-out: Verify that the thermal cut-out is intact and not bypassed. If someone has previously bridged it, restore the correct part and wiring.
• Temperature verification: Use an oven thermometer to compare actual temperature to the setpoint. If significantly higher, replace the NTC temperature sensor.